Development Economics

It integrates two fundamental intellectual traditions that our unique Department has cultivated for decades: a rigorous pluralist theoretical approach to economics and a focus on real-world development issues using modern economic analytical tools.

If you are interested in understanding the complexities of the global economy, the economic challenges and opportunities confronting countries in the Global South and addressing issues such as poverty, inequalities, climate change and environmental breakdown, and other significant development challenges, the MSc Development Economics is the ideal choice for you.

Participants will delve into various schools of thought concerning economic growth and development, inflation, unemployment, inequality, money creation, climate change, and macroeconomic policy. The curriculum encompasses different perspectives on topics like market failures, the role of institutions and agents in the economy and government interventions. Students will explore theories and policies through institutional, historical, and pluralist lenses.

Optional regional modules provide an avenue for students to explore regional perspectives, aligning with the longstanding tradition of SOAS Economics. Furthermore, participants have the opportunity to specialise in one of three areas: 1) Development Economics and International Finance, 2) Development Economics and the Environment, and 3) Development Economics and Institutions.

Global Partnerships

Programme participants are eligible to apply for a co-supervised dissertation, collaborating with members of the Economics department and leading experts from international organisations. Such organisations include the World Bank, the International Trade Centre (ITC), the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation (UNIDO), the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD) and the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

In addition, this programme is offered as part of a dual master's degree with Johns Hopkins University School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS). Through the dual Master's, students can spend the first year studying at SAIS and the second year at SOAS or vice versa and gain a Master's award from each institution.

Why study MSc Development Economics at SOAS

• We are ranked 27th in the UK for economics (QS World University Rankings 2023)
• We are top 20 in the UK for student satisfaction with teaching (Complete University Guide 2023)
• We are top 40 in the UK for economics (Complete University Guide 2023)
• SOAS is ranked 6th in the UK for employment outcomes (QS World University Rankings 2023)